An online journal of Mannie Gentile, a National Park Service Park Ranger working on the National Mall in our nation's capital.
DISCLAIMER: please note that this blog represents only my views and not those of the National Park Service.
Feel free to email me at: museumofamerica@myactv.net

Friday, November 04, 2011

It was a red-letter day today as the Park recognized Volunteer, Jim Rosebrock, the very first inductee of Antietam National Battlefield's "Volunteer Master Ranger Corps".

Jim is surrounded by his colleagues following the presentation of this very important recognition of his

considerable degree of commitment, enthusiasm, and interpretive talent in helping Antietam National Battlefield maintain its high standard of excellence.

Jim's daughter Rachel, a high school senior and also an Antietam volunteer, represents the future of our volunteer corps, and demonstrates that the apple doesn't fall too far from the tree as far as excellence, altruism, and commitment are concerned.

It really can't be overstated what a rare and noteworthy achievement this is. It was an exciting day for all of us.

Saturday, October 29, 2011

What sounds like sporadic gunfire throughout the valley this afternoon is actually the full-leaved, and covered with four inches of heavy snow, treelimbs snapping and crashing all over the mountainside.

The Park closed early today due to the surprise snowstorm, and although I'm conked out with a cold, Susan is out in the yard with a broom saving our trees.

This one will make it through the storm.

Our maple in the backyard however...

I wasn't able to get to it in time. Most of its limbs are on the ground.

Just getting this post up was a chore as the power drops every few minutes

With the limbs drooping over the powerlines like this, we expect to lose electricity any moment now, making for a chilly night.

About Mannie

I'm fortunate to have married the love of my life. In that, I am a very lucky fellow. Otherwise I live in Washington County in western Maryland in a little house on the shoulder of South Mountain.
Other stuff from me here: http://manniesartimitateslife.blogspot.com/